Convertible integral helmet and method for connecting or disconnecting the constituent parts thereof

ABSTRACT

An integral helmet, in particular a so-called full-face helmet, that is preferably designed with a shell construction, comprising a helmet upper-shell unit with an integrated neck unit and a chin protection unit with a jaw clamp, wherein the chin protection unit is detachably connectable to the helmet upper-shell unit so as to form the integral helmet, wherein the chin protection unit is designed for connection to the neck unit as an open chin bar unit with end areas that are separated from one another at a distance so that, in the assembled state, the end areas form a completely closed unit together with the neck unit. Also, a method for connecting and/or disconnecting, without the use of tools, a chin protection unit having a jaw clamp to, or from, a helmet upper-shell unit having an integrated neck unit, so as to form an integral helmet, in particular an integral helmet.

The invention relates to an integral helmet, in particular a full-face helmet, preferably with a shell construction, according to the preamble of claim 1.

The invention further relates to a method for connecting and/or disconnecting, without the use of tools, a chin protection unit comprising a jaw clamp to, or from, a helmet upper-shell unit with an integrated neck unit, the method forming an integral helmet, in particular an integral helmet, in particular for a helmet upper-shell unit according to the preamble of claim 2, which is placed onto a head during the connection/disconnection.

There are a variety of integral helmets known from the prior art. In particular, there are known two-part integral helmets, in which a chin part can be removed from, or connected to, an upper part. DE 10 2011 122 796 A1 discloses a safety helmet, in particular a safety helmet for bicycle riders, which comprises as an integral part thereof a half-shell helmet and a bottom helmet part that surrounds the chin and the back of the head/neck area, wherein the integral part can be detachably connected to the half-shell helmet. This allows one to use only the half-shell helmet, for example when riding uphill. For sport uses, the surrounding integral part ensured a secure hold. The integral part is O-shaped, which is to say it comprises a peripheral closed part. The integral part can only be connected to the helmet part when the helmet part is lowered onto the integral part. DE 32 14 020 A1 likewise discloses a safety helmet with an O-shaped chin bar.

An object of the present invention is to create an integral helmet in which removal and attachment to a helmet upper-shell unit is possible even with the helmet upper-shell in place, and with which manual connection is simple. Another object is to provide a method for connecting and/or disconnecting a chin protection unit with a jaw clamp to, or from, a helmet upper-shell unit with an integrated neck unit to form an integral helmet, without the use of tools.

This and other objects are accomplished by an integral helmet according to claim 1 and a method according to claim 10.

Advantageous embodiments of the invention are set forth in the dependent claims or are described below in connection with the description of the figures.

The invention involves the technical teaching that, in an integral helmet, and in particular a so-called full-face helmet, preferably with a shell construction, comprising a helmet upper-shell unit, in particular a one-part helmet upper-shell unit, with an integrated neck unit and a chin protection unit and with a jaw clamp, wherein the chin protection unit can be detachably connected to the helmet upper-shell unit to form the integral helmet, the chin protection unit is designed as an open chin bar unit with end areas separated from one another, in particular end areas designed to be flexible alone when not connected to the helmet upper-shell unit, for connection to the neck unit so that, in the assembled state, the end areas together with the neck unit form an entirely closed unit. The integral helmet comprises a jaw clamp. In one embodiment, the jaw clamp is disposed in the helmet upper-shell unit. In a preferred embodiment, the jaw clamp is provided in the chin protection unit. In another embodiment, the jaw clamp is disposed both in the helmet upper-shell unit and the chin protection unit. It can be preferable to design the jaw clamp in two or more parts for this purpose. In an embodiment in which the jaw clamp is disposed in the helmet upper-shell unit, the helmet is designed as a so-called jet helmet, i.e. as a half-shell with jaw clamp. In this embodiment, the chin protection unit has no cushioning. The chin protection unit in this embodiment is stiffer, or can be made stiffer, since there is no spreading due to the jaw clamp. In another embodiment, the helmet is designed as a jet helmet and the jaw clamp is attached to the chin part. In another embodiment, the helmet is designed as a jet helmet, in particular as a half-shell helmet, for expanded ear protection. This embodiment only has a hard-shell ear cover. It is preferable for the jaw clamp to be designed as a single part. The one-part jaw clamp is preferably disposed at the chin protection unit. To this end, the chin protection unit is designed to be elastic, so as to allow for spreading, upon jaw clamping, when the helmet is placed onto a head. Spreading as defined in this invention is understood to also include, in particular, enlargement of an internal volume, in particular in such a way that an external contour or external dimension does not change. As such, in one embodiment, there is no expansion of the unit as a whole. The jaw clamp thus represents a device in which the restoring forces of a cushion of the jaw clamp act against the counteracting force of the face of a user on the one hand, and against the outer helmet wall on the other hand. This creates a friction lock/positive locking effect, in particular between the face, or more precisely the cheeks, of the user, and the cushion or jaw clamp, which produces both the jaw clamping action, which is to say the clamping of the cheeks, and the jaw clamping unit or device itself. Thus, in one embodiment, a chin protection unit is provided, in which a cushion placed therein is designed to be elastic and to have a high restoring force, wherein the restoring force is such that the same allows the cushion to be compressed when the helmet is put on, and once the helmet is on, the cushion effects a sufficiently high positive lock between the chin protection unit and the face of the user as to fix the helmet in place. In this way, a kind of jaw clamping effect is created. In other embodiments, an adjustable cushion is designed. In one embodiment, the adjustable cushion comprises means for enlarging a cushion volume, for example by way of inflatable elements. In other embodiments, an adjusting mechanism is provided which allows the cushion to move relative to the chin protection unit or the helmet and/or the face. It is preferable for the helmet upper-shell unit and the chin protection unit, as well as the corresponding connection means therefor, to be designed such that spreading of the chin protection unit is minimized or entirely eliminated. This is accomplished in that the end areas are fixed to a corresponding pivot joint of the helmet upper-shell unit. The pivot joint and the jaw clamp, or the chin protection unit and the helmet upper-shell unit, are designed in such a way that contact between the jaw clamp and the face/head of a user only takes place after the end area is contacted with, or fixed to, the helmet upper-shell using the corresponding connection means/pivot joints, at least during proper use. The stiffening of the end areas, in particular in the areas between the snap-in devices and the places where the end areas sit against the upper-shell, is reinforced using profiling and local material thickening so as to hinder or prevent the latching connections coming loose by force. The neck unit is designed in one piece with the helmet upper-shell unit. Here, it is preferable to locate the neck unit centrally in a rear area, which is to say, on a side of the helmet upper-shell unit opposite to a viewing window. The neck unit protrudes from the helmet upper-shell unit here as a protrusion, or in the manner of a lobe, at a lower end of the helmet upper-shell unit.

Together with a front side of the helmet upper-shell area, the neck area forms a front area designed to hold a corresponding area of the chin protection unit. In another embodiment, the neck area can be detachably connected to the helmet upper-shell unit. In another embodiment, the neck area is designed to be detachable with the chin protection unit. In another embodiment, the neck area is designed to be detachably connectable to the chin protection unit and the helmet upper-shell unit. It is preferable for the neck unit to be rigidly constructed with the helmet upper-shell unit. Each end area is connected to the neck unit and to the helmet upper-shell unit, and consequently to the front area. Thus, an end area of one side is connected to the neck unit. The other end area is connected to the neck unit from another, opposite side. The neck unit thus comprises two seats for the end areas separated by a distance from one another. The seats are preferably designed so as to be opposing, and/or disposed at opposite sides. Thus, the seats and the end areas are matched with one another for ease of seating. The seats and the end areas are preferably designed so as to be at least partially complementary. In one embodiment, the helmet upper-shell unit is made of a plurality of shells, for example an upper shell and a lower shell, or an outer shell and an inner shell. In another embodiment, only one shell is provided. On the other hand, other embodiments provide a plurality of shells, such as an intermediate shell, or multiple intermediate shells. In one embodiment, at least the upper and the lower shell, or at least two shells, are designed with a fully-laminated construction. To this end, GFP, which is to say, glass-fiber-reinforced plastic, is provided as material for the shells, or for at least one of the shells. In another embodiment, the material provided for the shells, or at least one shell, is CFP, which is to say, carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic. Meanwhile, in another embodiment, CFP and Kevlar are used as materials for at least one of the shells, which is to say, carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic with added Kevlar, in other words an aramid, and more precisely a long-chained synthetic polyamide in which at least 85% of the amide groups are bonded directly to two aromatic rings. In another embodiment, the helmet upper-shell unit is produced with a composite construction. Here, a laminate reinforcement is at least partially applied inside in an outer shell, which is preferably deep-drawn and/or injection molded. ABS, which is to say, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, is provided as the material for the outer shell, or for another shell. The laminate reinforcement is made of any material, but preferably GFP, CFP or CFP with aramid. In addition, the helmet outer-shell unit comprises a foam core, preferably a foam core made of EPS (polystyrene or expanded polystyrene) or of a foam, for example EPP (polypropylene or a particle foam of polypropylene). In an exemplary embodiment, the foam core is designed so as to be separate from the helmet upper-shell unit, for example by way of separate foams in a separate tool, and the separately designed foam core is then connected to the helmet upper-shell unit, for example by gluing and/or using an adhesive. In another embodiment, the foam core is produced directly in the helmet upper-shell unit. The (helmet) shell where the foam core is formed preferably remaining in the tool half for the shell during production. The foam core is foamed in directly on the shell, preferably the outer shell, which remains in the tool half for the shell. This is also referred to as an in-mold process. In this in-mold process, three tool halves are required for use. The helmet upper-shell unit is preferably designed mirror symmetrical along the center axis of the helmet.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a viewing window is designed between a top area of the chin protection unit and a front area of the helmet upper-shell unit and/or the neck unit, and a self-locking interlock mechanism is provided for connecting the chin protection unit to the helmet upper-shell unit. The interlock mechanism preferably comprises connection means on the helmet upper-shell unit to cooperate with corresponding connection means on the chin protection unit. The connection means on the helmet upper-shell unit are preferably disposed at the front of the helmet upper-shell unit. The top area is formed at the peripheral edge of the chin protection unit adjacent to the upper-shell unit, when in the connected state. The top area is thus bounded on one side by the peripheral edge. The top area is further bounded in another direction by an offset. Thus, the top area runs lowered, in particular inclined, relative to the remaining portion of the chin protection unit. In one embodiment, the top area narrows toward the peripheral edge. The top area is only provided in the end area, which is to say, in an area in which the chin protection unit is provided, which is to say, designed, for making contact with the helmet upper-shell unit. The front area is bounded by the corresponding peripheral edge of the helmet upper-shell unit. A seat for the top area of the chin protection unit is designed from the peripheral edge in the direction moving away from the connected chin protection unit. The seat is designed as a funnel-shaped molding, or a truncated funnel. This funnel comprises an outer funnel wall that is formed from a helmet upper-shell unit section, more specifically from the outer surface or outer wall thereof. A funnel base wall or a funnel base extends from this outer funnel wall.

An inner funnel wall ends at this base at a slant. The outer funnel wall and the inner funnel wall, both of which are connected to the funnel base, form a funnel-shaped seat. This means that both walls run in a direction opposite to the funnel base away from one another and thus form a funnel-shaped insertion funnel. The inner funnel wall is covered, at the interior side, by a helmet upper-shell cushion or the like, so that a head of a user does not sit against the inner funnel wall when the helmet is worn. In order to securely connect the chin protection unit to the helmet upper-shell unit, a corresponding interlock mechanism is provided. In one embodiment, this interlock mechanism is designed as a self-locking interlock mechanism. This means that a user does not need to actively operate a lock to bring about the interlocking.

A clip-like locking and/or a self-latching lock is, rather, provided. To this end, the interlock mechanism comprises suitable connection means. Some connection means are provided on the helmet upper-shell unit. Corresponding connection means are provided on the chin protection unit. The helmet upper-shell-side connection means, abbreviated as the helmet-side connection means, firstly comprise the seat or funnel. In addition, the helmet-side connection means comprise first connection means. The first connection means are designed to form a pivot joint together with first connection means on the chin protection unit. Correspondingly, the first helmet-side connection means are designed as studs, axles, pins or the like. The corresponding first connection means on the chin protection unit are correspondingly designed as penetrations, drill holes, holes, notches or the like. In one embodiment, the complementary connection means are also disposed in reverse, such that the penetrations or the like are on the helmet side and the studs or the like are on the chin protection side. The helmet-side first connection means are disposed to the side, in a lower front area of the neck unit, and thus in the front area, at a lowermost end of the helmet upper-shell unit. When the chin protection unit is joined with the helmet upper-shell unit, the chin protection unit and the corresponding first connection means thereof are moved in the direction of the first helmet-side connection means. Because of the funnel-shaped form of the seat and the flexible design of the end areas of the chin protection unit, the top area runs along the inner funnel wall. As joining continues, the ends are spread apart and the first connection means on the chin protection unit pass over the first helmet-side connection means to achieve a pivot joint together therewith. This ensures an initial fixing of the chin protection unit at the helmet upper-shell unit. The spreading of the end areas results in the latching of the first helmet-side connection means securely into the first connection means on the chin protection unit. One embodiment provides that the first connection means interact magnetically. Thus, the first connection means are designed to be magnetic and/or magnetizable. Here, in one embodiment, the helmet-side connection means comprise corresponding magnet elements and the chin protection-side connection means comprise magnetizable elements or magnets arranged with opposing poles. In another embodiment, the chin protection-side connection means comprise magnet elements and the helmet-side connection means comprise magnetizable elements or magnets arranged with opposing poles. This makes it possible to provide haptic and acoustic feedback of a secure connection to the user. The first connection means on the chin protection unit are disposed at a position which corresponds to the position of the first helmet-side connection means. In one embodiment, the first connection means on the chin protection unit are designed at a lowermost top area. This results in a 3D pivot lock in the corresponding embodiment. In one embodiment, the 3D pivot lock is designed non-elastically, in the manner of a latch-spring arrangement. The connection is, rather, achieved by way of a suitable 3D contour. The connection is made preferably along one or more peripheral edges so that overall a peripheral connection is achieved. The 3D lock is provided as an alternative to a flexible connection and/or in combination therewith. The locking is preferably achieved by way of a 3D lock or a plurality of 3D locks. Here, the at least one 3D lock has a curvature in three-dimensions, as opposed to a cylindrical pin, for example.

In one embodiment, the connection means and/or the 3D pivot lock comprise a pin or stud. In the 3D pivot lock, the pin/stud is preferably designed as a cylindrical pin. The chin part is rotated around the cylindrical pin, thereby making a 2D rotational motion along a rotational plane. Because of the differing angles of the surfaces of the corresponding sections provided for contact, there is an additional motion along a third direction along the surface that is in contact, and hence a 3D motion. The outer surfaces of the upper-shell and the chin part achieve the same inclination during turn-in. Together with the pivot motion, the motion describes a three-dimensional process or motion as a result of the inclination alignment. The pivot motion of the chin part component occurs around an axis, in particular a linear and/or horizontal axis, which is static relative to the pivot motion, perpendicular, in particular by 90°, to the direction of motion of a user who is wearing the helmet, in other words perpendicular to the direction of viewing. Similarly, studs and holes therefor are arranged correspondingly to this end.

To engage the 3D lock therefore requires a three-dimensional direction of motion, which is to say, pivoting plus inclination alignment. Accordingly, the 3D lock is designed so as to engage by way of a three-dimensional motional direction or installation direction. The funnel wall provided is intended to compensate for any residual spring force that may occur. This is accomplished despite the capture by the pivot joint.

Yet another embodiment provides that at least one first connection means on the chin protection unit, and the first connection means on the helmet upper-shell unit corresponding thereto, form a pivot joint in the connected state, the chin protection unit being capable of being pivoted around the axis of rotation thereof against the helmet upper-shell unit. The pivot joint is designed as a detachable pivot joint. The first helmet-side connection means is preferably designed as a pivot stud, pin, axle or the like. Said stud, pin, axle or the like extends from the outer funnel wall in the direction of the inner funnel wall. Here, a tip of the stud is designed adjacent to the inner funnel wall at a distance from the inner funnel wall. The first connection means on the chin protection unit is designed as a through-opening. In another embodiment, the first connection means is designed as a recess and/or cut-out. In this way, the stud extends like a nose into the connection means when the connection is made, more precisely into the through-opening or recess. The contours of the connection means are matched to one another so that a pivot joint can be achieved. In one embodiment, a tilting motion is produced from simple pivot, so that 3D movement is also possible.

In addition, one embodiment provides that a second connection means on the chin protection unit, or a second connection means on the helmet upper-shell unit, is at least partially peripherally surrounded by the other respective corresponding second connection means, in the connected state. In one embodiment, part of the second connection means on the chin protection unit is surrounded fully peripherally, in the connected state, by the corresponding second, helmet-side connection means. In one embodiment, the chin protection unit is designed in two parts, with an inner part and an outer part. The outer part forms an outer shell. The inner part forms an elastic inner bar. The inner bar comprises a jaw-like opening at the rear ends thereof as a second connection means for reaching into the second, helmet-side connection means. The second, helmet-side connection means are designed as pins, pivot axles, axes, studs or the like, similar to the first helmet-side connection means. The outer part comprises a slot, a groove, an elongated through-opening or the like as second connection means of the outer part. The second helmet-side connection means projects into these second connection means of the outer part, respectively, similar to the design of the first pivot joint of the first connection means. The second connection means of the outer part and of the inner part are partially coincident at one end. At another part, the second connection means of the outer part comprises no corresponding second connection means of the inner part. Without the second connection means of the inner part, latching of the second connection means would thus not be possible. Therefore, a latching connection is possible because of the elastic design of the second connection means of the inner part. This is because the stud latches into the two overlapping second connection means on the chin protection unit due to the corresponding shape thereof. The second connection means are designed at a rear end of the inner part. In addition, the bar-like inner part comprises a lobe-like tab that is disposed at a distance to the second connection means, the tab being used to operate the interlock mechanism. By pressing both tabs together, the rear ends with the second connection means are pressed together. This releases the lock or latch. The engagement of the stud and the slot can be released this way. In addition, in one embodiment, the second connection means are magnetic and/or magnetizable and/or comprise a magnet or a plurality of magnets. This makes haptic and acoustic feedback possible for securely connecting the second connection means. The magnets, which are disposed at different connection means, are preferably disposed with opposing poles to one another.

On the other hand, another embodiment of the present invention provides that the first connection means and/or the second connection means on the chin protection unit are provided at the end area of the chin protection unit. Through this arrangement, at the pliable and/or flexible end areas, it is easy to insert the helmet-side connection means into the connection means on the chin protection unit. Because of the open embodiment, it is easy to design the end area to be pliable or flexible. The pliability or flexibility of the end areas is preferably minimized so that as stiff an end area as possible is achieved. In particular, as high a stiffness as possible in the end areas is achieved, which prevents holes from being pushed away from the studs due to a force acting from the outside in the direction of a longitudinal center axis. The end areas are designed to be flexible or pliable in the non-assembled state. In the assembled state, the flexibility or pliability is minimized or eliminated by fixture to the helmet upper-shell unit.

One embodiment also provides that the interlock mechanism comprises locking means to lock the connection of the chin protection unit and the helmet upper-shell unit. In one embodiment, the locking means comprises the elastic inner part with the jaw-like openings on the end and the tabs provided for actuation purposes. In another embodiment, a magnet unit, or a plurality of magnet units, is provided. In one embodiment, the magnet unit is at least partially integrated into the connection means. In another embodiment, separate magnets or magnet units are provided. The magnets or magnetizable elements of different connection elements are designed or disposed so as to effect cooperation.

In yet another embodiment, the front area and the top area each comprise an overlapping area, wherein the overlapping areas correspond to one another, and the chin protection unit abuts said areas, in an at least partially overlapping fashion, at the helmet upper-shell unit, in the connected state. The top area of the chin protection unit is at least partially held in the front area of the helmet upper-shell unit. This results in at least part of the top area being overlapped by the front area. These overlapping areas form the entire area of overlap. The area of the front area overlapped by the front area forms the overlapping area on the chin protection side. The part of the front area overlapping the top area forms the helmet-side overlapping area. In particular, the helmet-side overlapping area is formed by the funnel.

In addition, in another embodiment, the overlapping areas are designed as spring-groove overlapping areas, wherein one overlapping area of the chin protection unit or the helmet upper-shell unit is designed as a spring and the overlapping area corresponding thereto is designed as a groove. The groove is designed as a funnel with a funnel base, an inner funnel wall and an outer funnel wall. A pin for forming a pivot axle in the funnel extends from the outer funnel wall in the direction of the inner funnel wall. The spring is designed as an offset section of the end area. Here, the spring preferably has a smaller material thickness than the remaining part of the chin protection unit.

One embodiment also provides that the overlapping areas comprise guiding means for facilitating connection of the chin protection unit to the helmet upper-shell unit. In one embodiment, the guiding means are integrated into the helmet upper-shell unit and/or the chin protection unit. In one embodiment, the guiding means comprise a narrowing area, for example a narrowing top area and/or front area. In another embodiment, the guiding means comprise a funnel-shaped inlet, in particular a funnel-shaped inlet at the front area and/or top area. Yet another embodiment provides a magnet or a plurality of magnets, for example at the top area and/or at the front area. Further guiding means such as guide notches, guide protrusions, recesses and the like are provided for in other embodiments. As such, a variety of surface characteristics can, for example, be provided which have lower or higher frictional values, for example, to improve the sliding of the top area and the front area past one another, for example, in one direction relative to another direction.

The invention also incorporates the technical teaching that, in a method for connecting and/or removing, without the use of tools, a chin protection unit comprising a jaw clamp to, or from, a helmet upper-shell unit with an integrated neck unit for forming an integral helmet, in particular an integral helmet as described above, in particular in the case of a helmet upper-shell unit placed on a head during the connecting or disconnecting, the following steps are provided: rotatably connecting two end areas of the chin protection unit to the neck unit; and pivoting the chin protection unit and end areas thereof connected to the neck unit relative to the helmet upper-shell unit, wherein the end areas are connected to the helmet upper-shell unit and/or wherein the connecting is done without the use of tools by way of a self-locking connection.

The invention also incorporates the technical teaching that a chin protection unit, in particular a chin protection unit as described above, is used with a helmet upper-shell, in particular a helmet upper-shell as described above.

Other measures to improve upon the invention are indicated in the dependent claims or follow from the description provided below of at least one exemplary embodiment of the invention as shown schematically in the figures. All features and/or advantages arising from the claims, the description or the drawing, including design details, spatial arrangements and method steps can be substantial to the invention both in and of themselves and in the many different combinations thereof. In the figures, identical or similar components are identified with the same or similar reference numbers.

FIG. 1 shows schematic side and front views of an embodiment of an integral helmet with a chin protection unit designed as a full-face helmet;

FIG. 2 shows schematic side and front views of the embodiment according to FIG. 1 without the chin protection unit;

FIG. 3 shows schematic side and front views of another embodiment of an integral helmet without a chin protection unit designed as a full-face helmet;

FIG. 4 shows schematic side and front views of another embodiment of an integral helmet without a chin protection unit designed as a full-face helmet;

FIG. 5 shows a schematic side view of a helmet upper-shell unit;

FIG. 6 shows a schematic side view of the helmet upper-shell unit according to FIG. 5 with a chin protection unit;

FIG. 7 shows a schematic partially cut-away a side view of the embodiment according to FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 shows two schematic sectional views of the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 7 along section A-A, one with the chin protection unit connected (left) and one with the chin protection unit just prior to being connected (right);

FIG. 9 shows a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of an integral helmet with a chin protection unit just before being connected;

FIG. 10 shows a schematic representation of the embodiment according to FIG. 9 with a slightly different chin protection unit in a partially cut-away side view;

FIG. 11 shows a schematic section along section plane c of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 shows a schematic section along section plane b of FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 shows a schematic section along section plane a of FIG. 10;

FIG. 14 shows a schematic perspective view of the embodiment according to FIG. 9 just after a first connection;

FIG. 15 shows a schematic section along sectional plane d of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 shows a schematic representation of the embodiment according to FIG. 14 with a slightly different chin protection unit in a partially cut-away side view;

FIG. 17 shows a schematic section along section plane c of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 shows a schematic section along section plane b of FIG. 16;

FIG. 19 shows a schematic section along section plane a of FIG. 16;

FIG. 20 shows a schematic perspective view of the embodiment according to FIG. 14 just before a second connection;

FIG. 21 shows a schematic representation of the embodiment according to FIG. 20 with a slightly different chin protection unit in a partially cut-away side view;

FIG. 22 shows a schematic section along section plane c of FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 shows a schematic section along section plane b of FIG. 21;

FIG. 24 shows a schematic section along section plane a of FIG. 21;

FIG. 25 shows a schematic partially cut-away view of the embodiment according to FIG. 21 with the chin protection unit in a completely connected state;

FIG. 26 shows a schematic section along section plane c of FIG. 25;

FIG. 27 shows a schematic section along section plane b of FIG. 25;

FIG. 28 shows a schematic section along section plane a of FIG. 25;

FIG. 29 shows a schematic top view of an inner part of the chin protection unit according to FIG. 25;

FIG. 30 shows a schematic partial section of a perspective view of the chin protection unit according to FIG. 25 by itself;

FIG. 31 shows a schematic partially cut-away view of the embodiment according to FIG. 25;

FIG. 32 shows a schematic section along section plane c of FIG. 31;

FIG. 33 shows a schematic section along section plane b of FIG. 31; and

FIG. 34 shows a schematic section along section plane a of FIG. 31.

FIGS. 1 to 34 show, in various views and varying levels of detail, a variety of exemplary embodiments of an integral helmet 100 according to the invention. FIG. 1 shows a schematic side view and a front view of an embodiment of an integral helmet 100 with a chin protection unit 160 designed as a full-face helmet 100 a. The chin protection unit 160 is designed as a chin bar 160 a, more precisely as a U-shaped chin bar 160 a, or as a chin bar unit 161. This chin bar can be connected to a helmet upper-shell unit 120. In FIG. 1, the chin bar 160 a is shown connected to the helmet upper-shell unit 120. A viewing window 110 is provided in the front between the helmet upper-shell unit 120 and the chin protection unit 160, the window being coverable using a visor. The chin protection unit 160 is connected to the helmet upper-shell unit 120 by, among other things, two respective lateral first helmet-side connection means 221, designed as studs 221 a, and corresponding first connection means 261 on the chin protection unit 160, which together function overall as a connection means 220. The helmet upper-shell unit 120 is preferably made of a plastic material such as CFP, GFP or CFP with additives. The helmet upper-shell unit 120 is preferably made in one piece. In one embodiment, a cushion is provided inside the helmet upper-shell unit 120. In addition, in one embodiment the helmet upper-shell unit 120 comprises ventilation means, for example in the form of air channels. The chin bar 160 a is preferably made of a plastic material such as CFP, GFP or CFP with additives. The chin protection unit 160 is preferably made of the same material as the helmet upper-shell unit 120. The helmet upper-shell unit 120 comprises a neck unit 140 in the neck area. The neck unit 140 is designed integral with the helmet upper-shell unit 120. The chin protection unit 160 comprises a so-called jaw clamp 150. The jaw clamp 150 clamps the cheeks of a user to ensure that the integral helmet 100 is securely held. The chin protection unit 160, which is designed as a U-shaped chin bar 160 a, is thus designed as an open chin bar unit 161. This chin bar unit 161 comprises two end areas 162 separated from one another by a distance (see FIG. 29 ff and the like) for connection to the neck unit (140) so that, in the assembled state, the end areas 162 form a fully closed unit together with the neck unit 140, at least in the assembled state.

FIG. 2 shows a schematic side view and a front view of the embodiment according to FIG. 1, without the chin protection unit 160. Instead of the chin bar 160, the helmet upper-shell unit 120 is extended laterally to ensure a better seat and better protection. In FIG. 2, the lateral extension includes the jaw clamp 150 so that the integral helmet 100 sits securely on a head of the user, with the cheeks of the user being clamped.

FIG. 3 shows a schematic side view and a front view of another embodiment of an integral helmet 100 without a chin protection unit 160, designed as a full-face helmet. The helmet upper-shell unit 120 corresponds essentially to that in FIG. 2. The only difference is that the jaw clamp 150 is somewhat different, and the neck area is provided only laterally, while an opening is provided centrally.

FIG. 4 shows a schematic side view and a front view of another embodiment of an integral helmet 100 designed as a full-face helmet, without the chin protection unit 160, having a helmet upper-shell unit 120 that is designed similarly to the helmet upper-shell units according to FIGS. 2 and 3. The only difference is that the helmet upper-shell unit 120 comprises a through-opening 125 on each side, in the area of the jaw clamp 150.

FIG. 5 shows a schematic side view of a helmet upper-shell unit 120. The helmet upper-shell unit 120 shown corresponds to the helmet upper-shell unit 120 shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 shows a schematic side view of the helmet upper-shell unit 120 according to FIG. 5 with another embodiment of a chin protection unit 160. The chin protection unit 160 shown in FIG. 6 only shows an outer part of a two-part chin protection unit 160, specifically, the part that lies flush with the outer surface of the helmet upper-shell unit 120. The end areas 162 of the chin protection unit 160 connect with a front area 125 of the helmet upper-shell unit 120. The front area 125 extends from the neck area 140 to the area of the helmet upper-shell unit 120 that is bounded by the viewing window 110. Here, the front area 125 and the top area 165 overlap, so as to form an overlapping area 105 (see FIG. 8 and the like). The chin bar unit 161, and more precisely the outer part 167 thereof, has a through-opening 163 on each side, in a front area at a distance from, or opposite to, the two end areas 162, respectively. A part of an interlock mechanism 200 extends through these openings (see FIG. 30 and others). The two through-openings 163 are at a peripheral distance along the surface of the outer part 167 such that both of the openings can be reached at the same time with one hand of a user, and specifically the openings are about 10 to 15 cm apart.

FIG. 7 shows a schematic partially cut-away side view of the embodiment according to FIG. 6. In FIG. 7, the overlapping area 105 is shown in a cut-away view. It can be clearly seen how the front area 125 and the top area 165 overlap, and thereby define the overlapping area 105. Here, the front area 125 and the top area 165 overlap along the entire edge length of the front and top areas 126, 165 with the exception of the area of the viewing window 110, so that as large an overlap area 105 as possible is achieved. A section line A-A is drawn in FIG. 7. The section is shown in FIG. 8. When a lateral force is imparted from the outside to the chin protection unit 160, uniform force transmission occurs from the chin protection unit 160 to the helmet upper-shell unit 120 via the contact between the top area 165 and the funnel 170. (also see FIG. 8)

FIG. 8 shows two schematic sectional views of the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 7 along section A-A, one with the chin protection unit connected (left) and one with the chin protection unit just prior to being connected (right). The front area 125 widens in the shape of a funnel, such that the top area 165 can be easily inserted into said funnel 170. The top area 165 is slightly offset with respect to the outside of the chin bar 161, such that the bar can be easily inserted into the funnel 170. Here, the offset design of the top area 165 is such that the wider outside of the chin bar 161 abuts flush against the outside of the helmet upper-shell unit 120. The open form of the chin bar 161 allows the end areas 162, having the top areas 165, to be designed in a flexible U shape. This allows the offset top area 165 to be easily elastically moved toward the interior of the integral helmet 100 and in the opposite direction. In addition, the wall thickness of the top area 165 decreases in the direction of the end of the top area 165, which is to say the area that comes into contact with the helmet upper-shell unit 120 first, so as to further facilitate insertion of the top area 165 into the funnel-shaped front area 125, which thus functions as a seat. When a lateral force is imparted to the chin protection unit 160 from the front, uniform force transmission occurs from the chin protection unit 160 to the helmet upper-shell unit 120 via the contact between the top area 165 and the funnel 170. Introducing force causes spreading at the point of contact, the force being counteracted by the peripheral mounting/funnel. The funnel 170, or funnel-shaped peripheral groove, at the front edge of the helmet upper-shell unit 120 allows for error-free insertion of the top area 165, which functions as a spring when the chin protection unit is spread open due to the pressure of the face of the user against the jaw clamp 150.

FIG. 9 shows a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of an integral helmet 100 with a chin protection unit 160 just before being connected. Here, it can be easily seen how the overlapping area 105 is designed. The front area 125 of the helmet upper-shell unit 120 is funnel-shape, thereby forming a funnel 170. This funnel acts as a seat for the top area 165 of the chin protection unit 165. The top area 165 is made thinner, and/or is offset relative to the remaining outer surface of the chin protection unit 160, to enable easier insertion. Correspondingly, a landing is provided which simultaneously functions as a stop, and thus haptically limits insertion. In addition, a first connection means 261, designed as a first through-opening in the chin protection unit 160, is formed at the top area 165, the first connection means corresponding to a corresponding first helmet-side connection means 221, designed as a pin or stud, on the front area 125. The first connection means 221 and 261 are formed at a lower, rear area of the top area 165 and the front area 125. Due to the elastic design and the narrowing, the top area 165 slides into the funnel 170 and, in a connection area, bends in such a way that the through-opening passes over the corresponding stud and then the stud slides into the through-opening, such that a pivot joint 240 is created. The remaining push-fit connection of the top area 165 in the front area 125 is easily produced around this pivot joint 240, so as to form an overlapping area 105. The connection of the chin protection unit 160 and the helmet upper-shell unit 100 is made when a second connection snaps into place by way of a second connection means 220, for example at a second stud. This is more clearly depicted in the other figure. The stud, which acts as a first helmet-side connection means 221, forms a metal center. This center acts as a locking center for automatic locking as well as a magnet attachment center. This facilitates insertion guidance. A corresponding magnet 199 is disposed accordingly. The magnet 199, or a plurality of magnets 199, are disposed on both sides. The first connection means 261 at the lower, rear end of the top area 165 acts as a hinge or pivot joint end. The top area 165 functions as a spring. Thus, the connection means 200 comprise a mechanically-acting slide-bushing constituted by the first connection means 221, 261 and the funnel 170 and the spring. The helmet upper-shell unit 120 and the chin protection unit 160 themselves have hinge-like sliding surfaces.

FIG. 10 shows a schematic representation of the embodiment according to FIG. 9 with a slightly different chin protection unit 160 in a partially cut-away side view. At opposite ends of the front area 125, respective studs or pins are provided as first and second helmet-side connection means 221, 222, respectively, which extend inward into the funnel 170 without contacting the opposite wall of the funnel 170. The stud thus protrudes only into the funnel 170. The top area 165 comprises corresponding through-openings 163 for the studs. An opening, more precisely the through-opening 163, is tailored to the outer contour of the stud, slightly larger in comparison therewith, so that a simple pivot joint 240 can be created around a pivot axle 241 formed by the stud when the stud snaps into the through-opening 170. The chin protection unit 160 is rotated around the pivot joint 240 until the entire top area 165 engages in the funnel 170 of the front area 125. Lastly, the other stud snaps into a second through-opening 163, which functions as a second connection means 222, in the top area 165. The through-opening 163 is designed as a slot 163 a here. A lock is provided in the slot 163 a, the lock preventing unwanted release of the chin protection unit 160 from the corresponding stud which functions as a helmet-side connection means 222.

FIG. 11 shows a schematic section along section C-C of FIG. 10, Here, the front area 125 with the other stud can be seen. This stud protrudes from the outside of the helmet upper-shell unit 120, inward into the funnel 170. The stud protrudes into the funnel 170 without touching the opposite wall, such that a kind of snap-in protrusion is achieved.

FIG. 12 shows a schematic section along section B-B of FIG. 10, Here, the funnel-shaped design of the front area 125 and the offset tapered top area 165 are shown. The two are not engaged with one another.

FIG. 13 shows a schematic section along section A-A of FIG. 10. Here, the first stud likewise protrudes into the funnel 170 of the front area 125 without contacting the opposite side. The top area 165 with the hole/through-opening 163 is shown as well. In FIGS. 11 to 13, the chin protection unit 160 is not yet connected to the helmet upper-shell unit 120.

FIG. 14 shows a schematic perspective view of the embodiment according to FIG. 9 just after a first connection. Here, a pivoting connection is achieved by way of the pivot joint 240 between the stud and the through-opening 163. The top area 165 is held in the funnel 170 of the front area 125, in this area. The stud protrudes through the through-opening 163 and thereby functions as the pivot axle 241 of the pivot joint 240.

Due to the complex three-dimensional turn-in process, the opening 173 is gradually pushed over the stud. With a residual spring force, the connection will “latch.” With sufficient stiffness, this gradual pushing brings about insertion, which is to say linear movement along a movement direction. In insertion, the lack of pliability means that this does not snap in, as in the case of latching. Instead, the stud moves into the opening.

FIG. 15 shows a schematic section along sectional plane d of FIG. 14. Here, the pivot connection produced is clearly shown by the pivot joint 240. The stud, which functions as the pivot axle 241, penetrates the through-opening 163 of the top area 165. The top area 165 is held in the funnel 170 by an elastic deformation. By way of elastic deformation, the stud latches into the top area 170. The outside of the chin protection unit 160 abuts flush with the outside of the helmet upper-shell unit 120 in the remaining area due to the shifting of the top area 165.

FIG. 16 shows a schematic representation of the embodiment according to FIG. 14 with a slightly different chin protection unit 160 in a partially cut-away side view. In FIG. 16, the chin protection unit 160 is connected rotatably or pivotably to the helmet upper-shell unit 120 at the first pivot joint 240. The chin protection unit 160 can pivot around this pivot connection in the direction of the helmet upper-shell unit 120, so that the top area 165 and the front area 125 overlap and form the overlap area 105. In this position, the chin protection unit 160 can only be pulled out forward.

FIG. 17 shows a schematic section along section C-C of FIG. 16. The second connection position is shown here. This position comprises a stud which functions as a second helmet-side connection means 222 and which protrudes into the funnel 170 of the front area 125 without contacting the opposite funnel wall. As shown in FIG. 17, no connection has yet been made to the chin protection unit 160 at the second connection point.

FIG. 18 shows a schematic section along section B-B of FIG. 16. Here, the top area 165 of the chin protection unit 160 approaches the front area 125 of the helmet upper-shell unit 120. By way of the offset of the top area 165 relative to the remaining outer surface of the chin protection unit 160, the top area 165 projects toward an inner wall 171 of the funnel 170 of the front area 125. Upon contact, the inner wall 171 acts as an inclined plane. Upon contact, the top area 165 is led along the inner funnel wall 171 and deforms accordingly due to elasticity, such that the top area 165 can be seated in the funnel 170 and the first connection means 221, 261 are engaged, forming the pivot joint 240.

FIG. 19 shows a schematic section along section A-A of FIG. 16. Here, by way of the pivot joint 240, a pivot connection is created between the pivot axle 241, which takes the form of a stud, and the through-opening 163, which is to say that the stud is snapped into the through-opening 163. This is facilitated by the elasticity of the end area 162 and the top area 165 of the chin protection unit 160.

FIG. 20 shows a schematic perspective view of the embodiment according to FIG. 14 just before a second connection of the second connection means 222, 262. Here, the chin protection unit 160 is further pivoted or rotated around the first pivot joint 240 so that the top area 165 contacts other points of the front area 125 or is seated in the funnel 170. This is clear from the following figures. Assembly without the use of tools is done as follows. From below/from the front, the jaw clamp is pushed over a user's jaw and is compressed or squeezed thereby. The first connection means forms the first pivot joint 240, which forms a type of hinge end. Since the hinge end is rigidly connected to the pivot axle 241, the chin bar 160 a can't substantially spread out in the end area 162 due to the inner pressure exerted on the jaw clamp. Residual spreading is compensated by the funnel, which also has a tolerance range, preferably less than a few mm, and more preferably less than 5 mm. The spring is guided and brought in by the funnel at the overlapping areas 105, which is to say, at the areas in which the spring enters the groove. After attachment of the magnet 199 to the inner metal center, a positive lock is made by way of an upward rotation of the chin bar unit 160. This is facilitated by the shape, and more precisely by the inclination or bevel, of the hinge end of the spring that is pushed over the metal center, due to the rotation, resulting in an ever-changing inclination/bevel. In this way, there is no need for a hook-shaped formation or the like corresponding to a classical two-dimensional lock. Instead, a three-dimensional lock is achieved. It is only through the three-dimensional locking that blind introduction of the chin protection unit 160 into the helmet upper-shell unit 120 is possible. The magnet 199 contributes substantially to finding the axis without having to look for it, as does the funnel-shaped groove in particular, located in the hinge area, which is to say the funnel 170. Attachment of the magnet 199 in the wrong position is prevented by separating the magnet pivot axle from the mechanical slide-bushing of the top area 165 and the front area 125. This is reflected in the shell member itself, in this case by the offset of the outer wall relative to the spring. When the chin protection unit 160 is released from the helmet upper-shell unit 120, the position shown represents the subsequent state. In this position, the hole in the hinge end of the spring and the metal stud remain partially overlapped. At the same time, the magnet 199 is still holding. Thus, the helmet can be used in the swung open state. An ear opening in the jaw clamp 150 can be pushed from the front approximately horizontally over an ear of the wearer in the position shown here without causing contact and thereby compression. In this case, there is still no inner pressure being exerted. In the fully lowered state, the hinge end can be inserted from the front, past the center of rotation. Since the hinge hole (first connection means 261) and the stud already overlap here, the chin protection unit 160 cannot be lowered any further. Thus, the helmet can be used in the swung open state as well, as shown here.

FIG. 21 shows a schematic representation of the embodiment according to FIG. 20 with a slightly different chin protection unit 160 in a partially cut-away side view. The chin protection unit 160 is pivoted around the first pivot joint 240 and the top area 165 has come closer to the front area 125.

FIG. 22 shows a schematic section along section C-C of FIG. 21. It can be seen here how the top area 165 has moved in the direction of the inner funnel wall 171. The stud, which functions as a pivot axle 241, among other things, protrudes from an outer funnel wall 172 in the direction of the inner funnel wall 171. The tip of the stud is at a distance away from the inner funnel wall 171 such that the front top area 165 can be moved along the inner funnel wall 171 past the stud.

FIG. 23 shows a schematic section along section B-B of FIG. 21. Here, the top area 165 is guided along the inner funnel wall 171 by a front area. The outer wall of the helmet upper-shell unit 120 and chin protection unit 160 do not yet abut flush, and are moved closer together by further pivoting.

FIG. 24 shows a schematic section along section A-A of FIG. 21, FIG. 24 does not differ substantially from FIG. 19. Here, the pivot connection around the pivot joint 240 is shown in detail. FIG. 25 shows a schematic partial sectional view of the embodiment according to FIG. 21 with the chin protection unit in a completely connected state. The top area 165 is seated in the front area 125 along the front peripheral edge of the helmet upper-shell unit 120, with the exception of the area that borders the viewing window. This is made clear in the following figure. To remove it, the spring is compressed, more precisely the inner part 180 is compressed, resulting in a complete unlocking. The chin protection unit 160 can then be pivoted again.

FIG. 26 shows a schematic section along section C-C of FIG. 25. The top area 165 is held in the funnel 170. The top area 165 is double-walled in the area seated in funnel 170. The chin protection unit 160 comprises an inner part 180 and an outer part 190. The stud that functions as a pivot axle 241, among other things, protrudes through both walls of the chin protection unit 160, i.e. through the inner part 180 and the outer part 190, so that a snap-in connection results. There is still a minimum distance between the outer surface of the upper-shell unit 120 and the outer surface of the chin protection unit 160.

FIG. 27 shows a schematic section along section B-B of FIG. 25. Here, the top area 165 is almost completely seated in the funnel 170 of the front area 125. Here, as well, there is still a slight gap between the front-most top area 165 and a base area or a base wall 173 of the funnel 179 as well as between the outer surfaces of the helmet upper-shell unit 120 and the chin protection unit 160. When there is complete connection, this gap is minimized or no longer present.

FIG. 28 shows a schematic section along section A-A of FIG. 25, FIG. 28 does not differ substantially from FIG. 19 or 24.

FIG. 29 shows a schematic top view of an inner part 180 of the chin protection unit 160 according to FIG. 25. The chin protection unit 160 is made in two parts, with the inner part 180 and an outer part 190. The inner part 180 is approximately U-shaped or parabolic, corresponding to the contour of the entire chin protection unit 160 and of the outer part 190. At the elastic end areas 162, the inner part 180 comprises an offset section 181. The offset section 181 comprises a jaw-like opening 182, with which the offset section 181 can grasp a corresponding stud of the helmet upper-shell unit 120. In addition, a lobe-like tab 183 is respectively provided which projects perpendicular to the offset. Provided between a front area 184 and both of the two end areas 162, respectively, there is another lobe-like protrusion 185 which projects at an angle. This protrusion is provided for engaging in the through-openings 163 of the outer part 190. The lobe-like second protrusions or tabs 185 project into the through-openings 163 of the outer part so that the same can be reached by a user from the outside. The inner part 180 and the end areas 162 can be deformed by applying a force. This introduces an opening process to detach the chin protection unit 160 from the helmet upper-shell unit 120. Pressing on the lobe-like second protrusions 185 effects an unlatching at the second connection point, which is to say the second connection means 222, 262. The inner part 180 represents an inner locking component of the chin protection unit 160. In the inner locking component, there are lever cantilevers attached at both sides (position 182) that are accessible from the outside through openings 163 of the outer part. When there is no pressure imparted in the direction of the helmet center axis, in other words inward, the lever cantilevers sit positively locked with tabs 183 in openings 163. Since, at the same time, the cantilevers are connected by way of a center bridge (at position 184), the entire positive lock can only be released, and the locking component moved, when pressure is applied to the tabs 183 on both sides at the same time. Unlocking on one side is thus not possible. Therefore, the unlocking motion also involves two directions of motion by the user's hand, more precisely a circular path, corresponding to a gripping motion by a hand, but it is unlikely for the unlocking motion to be generated by an outside effect on the lock due to an impact, all the more so as the direction is opposite to the direction of travel. On the other hand, the positive lock can be most certainly released with one hand using a force and a counterforce from one hand. Unlocking on one side is again impossible here. In the locking component, a magnet 199 is attached on each side, behind each jaw opening 182, which grasps the respective stud of the main shell, or the outer part 190. The holding force of the stud by the magnet 199 exceeds the total holding force of the magnet of the spring and/or magnet mechanism 195 at the operational end of the lock, at about the nose position of the chin protection unit 160. When the wearer of the helmet, by pressing on the tabs 185, applies a force to the locking component that exceeds the difference of the magnetic holding forces, the entire lock darts forward and remains permanently held at the magnet of the mechanism 195. In this way, the index is only visible to the wearer in the closed position (signaling a closed and locked position), but is not visible in the open state when the lock is not present in the openings. The inner part 180 is thus disposed in the chin protection unit 160 and can move relative to the outer part 190. Here, a front area 194 of the inner part 180 cooperates with the spring and/or magnet mechanism 195 in such a way that a magnet of the mechanism 195 pulls on the front area 194 as soon as positive locking of the tabs 185 in the corresponding openings 163 in the outer part 190 has been released.

FIG. 30 shows a schematic partial section of a perspective view of the chin protection unit 160 according to FIG. 25 by itself. Here, it can be clearly seen that the chin protection unit 160 is made of two parts, the inner part 180 and the outer part 190. The jaw-like openings 182 each grasp a stud that functions as a second, helmet-side connection means 222. The second protrusions or tabs 185 reach into the through-openings 163. The front part 184 that connects the two end areas 162 contacts a spring and/or magnet mechanism 195 in the corresponding front area of the outer part. This produces a haptic response for the user, to signal secure fastening.

FIG. 31 shows a schematic partially cut-away view of the embodiment according to FIG. 25, this time in the completely connected state. Here, there is complete connection of the second connection means 222, 262 including latching of the second, helmet-side connection means 222 in the corresponding opening 182 of the inner part 180.

FIG. 32 shows a schematic section along section C-C of FIG. 31. Here, no gap is provided between the base of the funnel 173 and the front-most area of the top area 165. The top area 165 sits against the funnel base 173. The stud or the second helmet-side connection means penetrates the respective through-opening of the outer part 190 and the inner part 180 so that latching of the stud in both parts 180, 190 is ensured.

FIG. 33 shows a schematic section along section B-B of FIG. 31. Here, as well, as in FIG. 32, there is no gap between the funnel base 173 and the front-most part of the top area 165. The top area 165 sits against the funnel base 173 and the inner funnel wall 171.

FIG. 34 shows a schematic section along section A-A of FIG. 31. Here, there is no substantial difference seen in comparison to FIGS. 28, 24 and 19.

The following is stipulated. The integral helmet can be of any arbitrary design. It is preferable to design the helmet as an adaptive half-shell helmet, as a full-shell helmet or the like. A full-shell helmet is designed as a full-fledged full-shell helmet, for example. Full-fledged in the sense of the invention means a helmet that has sufficient positive lock at the head by way of a jaw clamp, for example. The helmet must not shift or wobble relative to the head when it is put on. The helmet upper-shell unit is designed as a deformable stable overall shell together with the chin protection unit by way of an uninterrupted overlap of the chin protection unit and the helmet upper-shell unit. This ensures peripheral introduction of force along the entire separating joint (overlap area). Installation of the chin protection unit is done without the use of tools, preferably with one hand, and is possible when the helmet upper-shell unit is worn. The integral helmet is designed such that when force is introduced from the front, causing an outward bulging, the outer shell grasps the chin bar along this bearing edge and redirects the force accordingly. This occurs during a front impact onto the chin bar, for example. When the chin part is moved into the installed state, a spreading of the chin bar takes place due to the pressure acting on the jaw clamp. In order to compensate for this, the groove in the upper-shell is designed to be funnel-shaped. If a force is introduced inward, such as the case in a side impact onto the chin bar, for example, the force is introduced to the main shell along a surface (overlap area). Due to the interrelationships of the components and the formation of an overall volume, the deformation characteristics of the upper-shell match those of a regular full-shell helmet.

When the chin part is moved into the installed state, a spreading of the chin bar takes place due to the pressure acting on the jaw clamp. In order to compensate for this, the groove/seat in the upper-shell is designed to be funnel-shaped. Due to the interrelationships of the components and the formation of an overall volume, the deformation characteristics of the upper-shell match those of a regular full-shell helmet. Likewise, to counteract the spreading, but also to facilitate blind positioning of the chin bar, the attachment process is subdivided into an insertion phase and a turning-in phase. At the initial point of insertion, there is a pivot axle on both sides, preferably a pivot axle made of steel or another comparable material which possesses similar properties as steel, at least with regard to strength and/or stiffness. Likewise, on both sides are two magnets in the chin part which allow the axis to be found blind, providing for alignment of the chin bar relative to the upper-shell. The steel pivot axle is held on both sides by a hole. This hole only permits a horizontal insertion from the front until a force lock between the magnet and the axis is achieved. When this axial connection is produced, a positive lock in the vertical direction exists which prevents the chin bar from falling off. The bar can therefore be allowed to hang. Furthermore, the freedom of motion of the chin bar is limited to a rotation around the steel pivot axle. Since the chin bar is already fixed crosswise at the pivot axle and the groove as described is designed funnel-shaped, the spring of the chin bar can now be turned into the groove, against the forces at the jaw clamp which have a spreading effect. The interlock is built into the chin bar as an integral part. In the chin bar, there is a lock that can be moved by hand in the direction of travel using two levers accessible through access openings, and upon insertion is also automatically displaced by a stud attached in the upper-shell. This lock forms the inner part. A positive lock is also produced in the direction of travel between the pivot axle on the upper-shell and the hole in the chin bar, as turning in continues. The spring is made to be slightly higher such that it abuts against the inner wall of the upper-shell. It is thus impossible for the steel pivot axle to push down on the spring due to a laterally introduced force to the chin bar. A magnet in the lock provides a haptic and acoustic feedback when the jaw of the lock completely surrounds the steel stud on the upper-shell. A spring element holds the lock in the closed position. The central guide pin holds the spring element and guides the lock. The lock is guided at the upper forks. The lock is rigidly connected to the chin bar by way of a cotter pin, which also prevents the fork of the lock from being pushed by a lateral introduction of force by the stud on the upper-shell. In order to avoid malfunctioning or release due to a fall, the two levers are countersunk deep into the openings of the chin bar. The adaptive upper-shell is the support basis for many applications with a closed (chin bar), and open (jaws, jet helmet) construction. One-side appurtenances are also possible (baseball helmet, microphone/earphone unit), as well as a shorter chin bar. This allows better handling, reduced lever effects (such as in air resistance), and a better view. One embodiment provides a jaw design with a volume extension, for example for attaching devices such as breathing masks or communication equipment. One embodiment as a jet helmet provides a jaw design (hard) with recesses, for example. The helmet can take the form of a safety-optimized half-shell helmet, for example with a winter-sports design and with the option of subsequent introduction of earphones/ear protectors. The present invention facilitates finding the insertion opening blindly, by way of the funnel shape of the groove, the magnets and the arrangement of the magnets. The turning in is done against an inner pressure resistance. In a first step, the turning in occurs without inner pressure: Insertion in and fixing of open chin part ends at the pivot joint, this limits the tendency to spread with further turning in (then caused by pressure) to a residual minimum. This is counteracted by the inclination of the top area, which is called a spring below, as well as the funnel shape of the groove (cut-in effect). Automatic locking at the pivot point results, due to the inclination of the spring at the pivot point. A three-dimensional locking process is facilitated simply by way of insertion. In addition, it is possible to wear the equipment in the swung-open state. The pivot motion is locked. In addition, operational safety is ensured. The jaw lock and stud are held against a spring. Operational safety is recognized, since a magnet system is provided as an index. The operational safety, in particular against external events, is ensured by the fact that initiation must be done through two control elements, for example. Here, the interlock provides a positive lock. The invention ensures optimized force introduction. This is effected by an overlapping of spring/groove. This facilitates uniform peripheral force introduction into the helmet upper-shell unit. In addition, an interlocking or meshing shearing profile can be provided. Advantages include installation without the use of tools, installation while in place, due to the U-shape, and creation of a full-fledged full-face helmet with a jaw clamp. This can be connected to a support. In addition, optimum impact protection is ensured. This is achieved through a suitable selection of material. This is ensured through an impact-absorbing material. The helmet provides a full-fledged volume. The force introduction is done through the overlapping area and is thus is more uniform than in known solutions. Even though tool-free installation is possible while being worn, the integral helmet meets the motorcycle standards for impact/front. An embodiment of a tool-free installation, in particular with the helmet on, based on the complex, three-dimensional motion pattern, is described below.

The chin part is brought up to the upper-shell from the front. The cushion has a cushion cut-out in the ear area. The cushion cut-out in the ear area means that the face and cushion do not make contact during insertion.

Then, the chin part comes into contact with the upper-shell. The joint ends of the chin part meet the upper-shell. In the joint ends of the upper-shell, there are steel studs or metal studs, or studs made of another material, in particular with magnetic or magnetizable portions that correspond and interact with magnets placed in the joint ends of the chin part. This makes it possible to find the pivot axle blind, with little effort and without significant requirements of motor skills on behalf of the user. Furthermore, the surface itself is designed in the manner of a large joint socket. At the joint end, the offset relative to the inward-displaced surface, which is then inserted into the upper-shell, is designed in the form of a circular quadrant. The large diameter of the turn radius section also substantially simplifies finding the area.

When the stud-hole and outer-shell/upper-shell joint surfaces connect with the outer shell of the chin part, the spring of the chin part, which is designed to cooperate with the groove, reaches in at the point where the joint end is already located in the funnel-shaped groove in the foam member of the upper-shell. This happens without cushion contact and still completely free of force or tension.

At this time of engagement, the surfaces of the upper-shell and the chin part still have very different surface alignment relative to one another at the point or location of the joint axis, due to the skewed positions. In particular, the surfaces are aslant relative to one another.

The turning in is done upward. In the process, the cushion in the chin part first makes contact with the face of the wearer and is compressed upon further turning in. Since the single-part U-shaped chin part is already held by the joint ends, and thereby is connected to the rest of the helmet, the chin part cannot spread due to the force introduction of the cushion return forces, due to the groove of the outer shell.

Upon turning in to the final position of the closed state, the alignments, which is to say the surfaces, still further align until, in the closed state, a uniform volume results and the surface gradients at the separating joint are aligned identically, or at least nearly identically. Therefore, the spring gradually approaches the outer shell from the inside at the pivot point during turning in. The stud placed in the joint end of the upper-shell thus continues to move into the hole made in the joint end of the chin part up until the shells make contact.

As turning in continues, the spring of the chin part continuously shears into the peripheral groove of the upper-shell. Accordingly, the restoring force of the cushion is continuously counteracted as nearly as possible to the location of the force introduction of a counterforce. However, the groove is designed as a peripheral funnel that also serves to guide a spring section that approaches in offset fashion, in cases where the chin part continues to deform nevertheless, that is to say spreads. At the same time, the inclination of the groove-spring shearing surfaces improves the gliding characteristics during the insertion. The remaining attachment by way of fastening means is as described hereabove.

For better initial finding of the pivot joint, a magnet is provided. With the aid of the magnet at the pivot joint, and the joint-head-in-socket-like outer shell configuration of the upper-shell and the chin part, initial positioning at the pivot joint is easily achieved, in the manner of a circular quadrant.

It should be understood that the features of the invention described above are applicable not just in the combinations indicated, but also in other combinations or alone, without departing from the scope of the invention.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

-   100 integral helmet -   100 a full-face helmet -   105 overlap area -   170 funnel -   110 viewing window -   120 helmet upper-shell unit -   125 front area -   140 neck unit -   150 jaw clamp -   160 chin protection unit -   160 a chin bar -   161 chin bar unit -   162 end area -   163 through-opening -   163 a slot -   165 top area -   167 outer part (chin protection unit) -   170 funnel -   171 inner wall (funnel), inner funnel wall -   172 outer wall (funnel), outer funnel wall -   173 base wall (funnel) -   180 inner part (chin protection unit), inner part -   181 offset section -   182 opening -   183 tab -   184 front area -   185 tab -   190 outer part (chin protection unit), outer part -   195 spring and/or magnet mechanism -   199 magnet -   200 interlock mechanism -   220 connection means (helmet upper-shell unit) -   221 first connection means (helmet-side) -   222 second connection means (helmet-side) -   240 pivot joint -   241 axis of rotation -   260 connection means (chin protection unit) -   261 first connection means (chin protection unit) -   262 second connection means (chin protection unit) 

1. An integral helmet, comprising: a helmet upper-shell unit with an integrated neck unit and a chin protection unit and with a jaw clamp, wherein the chin protection unit is detachably connected to the helmet upper-shell unit to form the integral helmet, wherein the chin protection unit is designed as an open chin bar unit with end areas that are at a distance away from one another for connecting to the neck unit so that, in the assembled state, the end areas form a completely closed unit together with the neck unit.
 2. The integral helmet according to claim 1, wherein a viewing window is designed between a top area of the chin protection unit and a front area of the helmet upper-shell unit and/or the neck unit, and a self-locking interlock mechanism is provided for connecting the chin protection unit to the helmet upper-shell unit, wherein the interlock mechanism comprises connection means on the helmet upper-shell unit for interacting with corresponding connection means on the chin protection unit, wherein the connection means on the helmet upper-shell unit are disposed at the front area of the helmet upper-shell unit.
 3. The integral helmet according to claim 1, wherein at least one first connection means on the chin protection unit and the first connection means on the helmet upper-shell unit corresponding thereto form a pivot joint in the connected state, around a pivot axle of which the chin protection unit is able to pivot relative to the helmet upper-shell unit.
 4. The integral helmet according claim 1, wherein a second connection means on the chin protection unit and/or a second connection means on the helmet upper-shell unit is at least partially peripherally surrounded by the other respectively corresponding second connection means, in the connected state.
 5. The integral helmet according to claim 1, wherein the first connection means and/or the second connection means on the chin protection unit are provided at the end area.
 6. The integral helmet according to claim 1, wherein the interlock mechanism comprises locking means for locking the connection of the chin protection unit and the helmet upper-shell unit.
 7. The integral helmet according to claim 1, wherein the front area and the top area respective overlap areas that correspond with one another, and the chin protection unit abuts the helmet upper-shell unit in an overlapping fashion, at least partially by way of said overlap areas, in the connected state.
 8. The integral helmet according to claim 1, wherein the overlap areas are designed as spring-groove overlap areas, wherein an overlap area of the chin protection unit or of the helmet upper-shell unit is designed as a spring and the overlap area corresponding thereto is designed as a groove.
 9. The integral helmet according to claim 1, wherein the overlap areas comprise guide means for facilitating connection of the chin protection unit to the helmet upper-shell unit.
 10. A method for tool-free connecting and/or disconnecting a chin protection unit comprising a jaw clamp to, or from, a helmet upper-shell unit with an integrated neck unit, the method forming an integral helmet according to claim 1, in particular for a helmet upper-shell unit placed on a head during the connection/disconnection, comprising the steps of: rotatably connecting two end areas of the chin protection unit to the neck unit; and pivoting the chin protection unit with the end areas, said chin protection unit being connected to the neck unit, relative to the helmet upper-shell unit, wherein the end areas are connected to the helmet upper-shell unit, and wherein the connecting is carried out without the use of tools by way of self-locking connection. 